8 Days Yoga and Fasting Detox Retreat in Thailand

Marga Yoga, 276/1 Moo 3 Taling Ngam Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand

Overview

Yoga and Fasting Detox Retreat in Koh Samui

When properly utilized, fasting is a safe and effective means of maximizing the bodys self-healing capacities. Fasting, or the abstinence from food, is a means used in nature by all creatures from the beginning of time. This means has been used to assist the body to relieve itself from discomfort, pain, and disease. When fasting, recovery from illness speeds up, as the body gets rid of toxins in excess, therefore enhancing the function of every cell. The organs of elimination in the body are the liver, lungs, kidneys, colon,etc. When these organs are overloaded, toxic material will store in the joints, muscles, organs, and tissues of the body.

Hatha yoga

Classes include pranayama techniques, asana, and relaxation and last 90 minutes. These are open classes (Sivananda) and they are suitable to the majority of people.

Detox

Toxic material is found in everything we eat and drink and in the air we breathe, as well as in alcohol, tobacco, legal and illegal drugs. We also produce toxins internally when we are stressed as our body releases toxins accumulated in the fat cells which circulate in the bloodstream. Vitamin and mineral deficiency as well as allergies are common symptoms of a toxic body, as well as fatigue, depression, skin problems, back pain, joint pain, etc. A detox is a natural way to get rid of unwanted toxic material in the body, a vacation for the entire organism which is purified to achieve maximum health. When toxins are released during a detox program, symptoms of headache, irritability, tiredness and skin eruptions, nausea, heartburn, as well as aching bones and joints can be experienced. This depends on the amount of toxins in the body and it is a natural process.

Detox at Marga Yoga

Marga Yogas detox programs combine a healthy raw diet, fresh juices, and natural supplements to give the body all it needs and to assist in removing toxic material from the intestines with the aid of natural ingredients and colonics. We use a combination of Ayurvedic and Thai herbal remedies, as well as Tibetan therapies aiming at cleansing and rejuvenating the body. Himalayan salts are used to provide the 84 essential minerals we are made of, resulting in a well-balanced detox.

What to expect

By using natural ingredients, we can assist in the detox program depending on the symptoms manifesting. Once this stage is passed, the feeling of a clean body manifests and we will feel more energetic, alert, and full of vitality. A detox is a time of reflection; once we learn to listen to our body, we will learn what is good for it and be more aware of our lifestyle. All the products used in our detox are 100% natural.

The fasting process

The first few days of a fast can be difficult, because of the amount of toxins passing through the bloodstream. The tongue gets a coating and the breath is foul as the body excrete waste. After a couple of days of fasting, there is little desire for food and the body starts cleansing out mucus, fat, and diseased cells. Clearing these obstructions restores the proper functioning of the immune system and of metabolism; the digestive organs and intestines are rested and purified, helping the body heal itself. Fasting is rejuvenating and it also affects our emotional and mental health. After the first few days of a fast, during which one can experience headaches and depression, the brain is nourished by a clearer bloodstream, promoting clarity of thoughts. The mind is clearer and more alert promoting emotional stability.

Benefits of fasting

Removal of toxic material from the body

Mental clarity

Increase in energy levels

Improved skin appearance

The body becomes more supple

Digestive functions are increased

Fat deposits and mucus are removed

The intestinal function is restored

The body goes through a process of rejuvenation

What we use

A mix of Thai, Indian, and Chinese organic herbs and teas; Himalayan salts and natural remedies to balance the functioning of the body and to relax the mind.

Simona started practicing meditation in her home town in Italy in 1990. She took her first Thai massage course in northern Thailand in 1997 and immersed herself in different meditation techniques in Bali. She also studied Thai massage in Chiang Mai and in Bangkok. Later on, she opened a Thai massage school and yoga center in Dublin. She opened a yoga studio in Taling Ngam. She provides yoga classes and hosts retreats for groups in and outside of Thailand.

"My experience at Marga Yoga couldn't have been better. The location was beautiful and out of the way of the tourist crowds and Simona couldn't have been more lovely. I was the end of the season so I was the only guest on the retreat and she was so welcoming and knowledgeable about healthy ways to live your life for the body and the mind. She made the most delicious vegan/vegetarian foods as well as body and face scrubs that have been miracle workers on my skin! (As soon as I got home, I went straight to the grocery and have been trying to copy her recipes!) She also helped me a lot with my practice, showing me ways to strengthen and pushing me for more. It was such a renewing experience. I would recommend it to anyone who was looking for a healing and low key holiday...and I might just go back myself! "

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Review by Kelly H

10 out of 10

"I was a little concerned that I was the only one for my time but Simone reassured me that the one to one time would be great. She was right. Accommodation at La Costa was really lovely especially sitting up at the main house. 6:30 am meditation followed by yoga beside the side was so peaceful. All the meals were delicious. Massages were amazing. This lovely retreat has been the start I needed to get back on a healthier road."

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Review by Maartje V from Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands

10 out of 10

"Thank you Simona for a great stay at your lovely place. Your website looked promising and personal experience found it to be positively true: a wonderfully calm relaxed environment away from the tourist crowds. "

"Simona arranged a pick-up from the ferry and welcomed me with open arms. Nearby accommodation was full so I stayed in the tipi which was great as it gave me a chance to camp by the sea. "

"Starting my day with meditation and yoga with a view of the beach and a sea breeze gently blowing through the sala is a lasting anchor of peace in my mind."

"The endless stream of healthy food, juice, tea invigorated me."

"Even though I'm not a dog person I left feeling sorry I wouldn't see Om and little brat Daisy anymore meaning they were very relaxed dogs anyone with dog apprehension could wish for."

"The people I met were great and Simona is a lovely host, an attentive person and skillful respecting teacher. "

"Thank you Simona and all the best with this great place! Hope to come again!"

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Review by lxhipster from Bangkok, Thailand

10 out of 10

"We have recently spent 7 days in a Chakra detox program at Marga Yoga where tranquility meets tropical in a stunning rustic yet charming setting."

"The retreat we had covers areas of Yoga, Chakra Balancing and includes a soup and juices diet which surprisingly was amazing and made us felt full of energy through out the program. Simona, the proprietor, the chef, the yoga teacher and a really good friend to us is really amazing and an expert in her fields. She offered really good yoga classes where the focus is on connecting the breathing and the asanas which forms part of meditation. Nowadays people seems to confuse Yoga with Aerobics which simply is not the case here. The chakra talks with insights on how to apply techniques in daily life is extremely useful and Simona is really passionate in providing a really personal experience for everyone who comes to Marga Yoga and any special requests are catered for."

"The program also included massages by therapists who are very well trained and can alleviate pain and give you a great day."

"There is also a cafe within the premises serving a selection of delicious vegan food, juices, soups, raw desserts and much more. Every palette is catered for here and you would definitely crave the food here."

"Marga Yoga is definitely a destination for yoga, relaxing, retreats or simply if you want to sit back relax and have a good time while enjoying healthy dining options in Koh Samui. Can't wait to be back!"

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Review by Angie Carr from Honolulu, Hawaii, Unites States of America

10 out of 10

"Marga Yoga is the best yoga and meditation retreat ever! I felt so rejuvenated everyday. "

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"There were relaxing ocean waves during our breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga. Simone is an excellent instructor, helping everyone with their poses in a very gentle way. She is also an amazing cook: such wonderful, healthy, tasty food and so accommodating to the needs of everyone! Simone even provided a young coconut after every massage. "

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"The nature walks were different everyday with location/intensities, and very healing in many ways. Koh Samui is a beautiful island - combine that beauty with Marga Yoga and you have the perfect experience that you will never regret!"

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Review by a traveler from London, United Kingdom

10 out of 10

"Had a great stay here, everything people have said on here is true, Simona is so lovely and welcoming and a great yoga teacher - and the food IS amazing! Great stay and will definitely be going back again."

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Review by Maxine Taylor from Cheshire, United Kingdom

10 out of 10

"I stayed at Marga Yoga for a week on the raw food and yoga detox, it was a truly amazing experience! Not only was the food absolutely delicious but Simona made my stay extremely calm and truly relaxing and just what a retreat should be, I would highly recommend this retreat for the beauty of the surrounding area, and I felt extremely safe, good luck for the future Simona and Om, love and peace "

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Review by Lisa Bingemann from Singapore

8 out of 10

"We enjoyed our stay at Marga yoga very much. Simona conducted partly challenging but also relaxing yoga sessions. She is very experienced and authentic.She took care of all our needs in a very friendly way. Thank you. Her vegetarian meals are outstanding and super delicious. In the beginning we thought it is a bit expensive for what we saw when we arrived. The accommodation is very basic. But at the end of our five day retreat I have to admit it is worth while and we wish her all the best and send her lot's of good energy to keep on going."

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Review by Clara from Pyrenees-Atlantiques, France

"I recently had a wonderful stay at Marga Yoga for a personal yoga holiday. I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was in between retreats so it was quite quiet when I arrived. Simona is a great host and a fantastic chef. One of the best aspects of Marga Yoga is the amazing raw and vegetarian cuisine that is made by Simona in the cafe. I thoroughly enjoyed my restful stay and I would recommend it to anyone who would like a quiet and relaxing environment away from the tourist crowds. This part of Koh Samui is about a 15-20 min ride away from the touristy areas of the island so you don't have to worry about the crowds. Thank you Simona and Om (the resident pup) for the great holiday!"

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Review by a traveler from Frankfurt, Germany

"Simona's place "Marga Yoga" is an island of peace, relaxation and wellbeing in Koh Samui. Not only is she extremely kind and welcoming but also a great yoga teacher and a great cook! Her raw, vegetarian and vegan dishes will convince even the most meat-addicted. She is a true professional and if ever coming back to Samui, will definitely visit her again."

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Review by Christine from Manchester, United Kingdom

10 out of 10

"I would thoroughly recommend a stay at Marga Yoga, completing the Yoga and Detox retreat. My first memories were receiving a warm welcome when I arrived at 10pm after a 12 hour flight. I was greeted by Simona the owner and Om the dog, the youngest resident yogi, and immediately knew that this was a place that I would come back to. I was welcomed with refreshing fresh coconut water and then shown to the living quarters. The next morning was a 7.30 start where I had an 'invigorating' Ayurvedic drink before meditation started. As for what happened next, you will have to try it to find out, but you will be pleased that you did. Having come to the end of the detox retreat I have gained so much more than the opportunity to drink juice, meditate and practice yoga every day. My leaving memories are the kindness of Simona, who was always supportive of how you were feeling throughout all the sessions, the tranquility and serenity created at the center and the down-to-earth and pragmatic approach to some of the challenges we encountered along the way. Simona organized an amazing program which helped a novice like me to get through juicing for seven days. Before I could even think about being hungry a juice appeared, before I could even think about being bored a stimulating walk or excursion was suggested. This also became a technology detox as internet access became limited to an hour a day. However, before all you Facebook and Tinder addicts panic and don't book, you have the chance to 'earn' extra internet time by completing as many 'frog poses' as you can manage. It makes you realize time spent looking at cats dancing really needs to be worth it. ;-) This is a great place to come if you want an uncommercialized, personal approach which helps you to address your own personal goals. You might be new to yoga and have a stressful, toxin-rich and unhealthy lifestyle, or you may have years or experience of fasting and yoga. Either way you will still get a great deal out of your stay here. "

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Review by Hannah from Singapore

10 out of 10

"I arrived at Marga Yoga exhausted, scattered, and stressed. I left feeling healthy, vibrant, happy and centered. I am beyond grateful to have crossed paths with Simona and Om. For me, my week at Marga Yoga was truly life changing. Simona's energy and dedication are inspiring - she is someone who I really admire. I enjoyed hanging out with her and talking about life, yoga, and the best sign for her new internet policy :) I have been to quite a few yoga/detox places and this one has been by far the best. Simona knows so much about yoga, Ayurveda, raw food, etc. The nature of the retreat is laid back and personal versus other places I have been that felt more like a business. Simona really makes you feel at home. She is one of the best yoga teachers I have learned from - she is thoughtful and pushes you (but with a good dose of light-hearted humor). And her food is amazing! I look forward to seeing Simona and Om again!"

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Review by Abbie from Annemasse, France

10 out of 10

"My experience at Marga Yoga was beyond wonderful. The Inner Peace retreat included yoga, meditation, nature walks, and some of the best food I've had in my life (and all very healthy!). In addition to all of the activities and great meals, I can genuinely say the retreat gave me a whole new outlook on how I'm living my life. During the days Simona led talks on finding inner peace in relationships, at work, and at life's most difficult times. The combination of these talks, individualized attention with yoga and meditation (I'm a beginner in both), and a beautiful location made this an experience I will always be so grateful for."

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Review by Abbie Kaiser from Boston, USA

10 out of 10

"My experience at Marga Yoga was beyond wonderful. The Inner Peace retreat included yoga, meditation, nature walks, and some of the best food I've had in my life (and all very healthy!). In addition to all of the activities and great meals, I can genuinely say the retreat gave me a whole new outlook on how I'm living my life. During the days Simona led talks on finding inner peace in relationships, at work, and at life's most difficult times. The combination of these talks, individualized attention with yoga and meditation (I'm a beginner with both), and a beautiful location made this an experience I will always be so grateful for."

"I stayed at Marga Yoga for 8 days beginning of March 2015. I did chakra detox and I found it to be one of the best experiences of my life. I arrived exhausted and overtired and by the time I left I was completely refreshed and renewed. Simona is an amazing person; she made me feel welcome and really took care of me during detox. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay, especially delicious juices, soups, yoga classes with great instructor Alan and company of lovely dog Om. I highly recommend this place full of positive energy."

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Review by a traveler from London, United Kingdom

10 out of 10

"It was a really truly relaxing experience. Simona is a great host, which will take care of you at all times. The food is absolutely amazing cooked by Simona with really nice and fresh ingredients. The beach is on just there so you can have a really good relaxation retreat. Overall an amazing experience."

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Review by Lila

10 out of 10

"Well wasn't I lucky, a few people had pulled out at the last minute so it was Simona and me, and of course Om (the dog with a feather duster for a tail). The center is bright, pretty, with a lovely little garden a hop skip and a jump to the water.I stayed for 4 nights and had 3 joyous days filled with yoga, eating clean, reading and pottering around, and not to forget the 2 massages, I was transported into a full state of bliss, what a great way to bring in the new year! The practice was excellent, beautiful meditations & yoga tailored to me, I learnt lots of tricks.The food was exactly what my body desperately needed, everything was visually pleasing - as they say you eat with your eyes and I did lots of that. (Ok maybe I wasn't too enamored with the brown forest dwelling detox drink, but lets say it worked its magic and I am all for that), I'm off to the health food store to buy some so that says something.Thanks again Simona and Om....let me know if there were any chicks!"

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Review by Duane from Christchurch, New Zealand

10 out of 10

"We left Koh Samuis Marga Yogi with a lot more than we had expected to after a week of yoga, detox and learning about chakras. The setting of the studio is perfect for a relaxing and fulfilling experience. We had taken part in a juice / soup detox but found we were a lot less hungrier than previous detoxes we had done that included proteins.Teacher, guide, mentor, Simona promotes, by example, a relaxing environment and excellent tuition with her clear and encouraging instruction and informative open discussions. She takes pride to provide a variety of dishes using the freshest food with great flavors. In between sessions the beach is on the doorstep with amazing sunsets and a laid back local lifestyle to enhance the retreat. We would not hesitate in recommending a Yoga retreat with Simona."

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Review by Anna from Ipswich, UK

10 out of 10

"What a wonderful week! This was a 7-day Chakra Detox involving daily yoga and meditation and a diet consisting of delicious juices and soups, broths and teas all freshly made. By the end of the week, I can honestly say that I felt strong, cleansed and energized.The center itself is an oasis of calm, is set in beautiful surroundings and is just minutes from the beach. For me, this was a fantastic introduction to yoga, meditation and Reiki; I learnt a lot and have been inspired to continue practicing now that I'm back home."

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Review by Patricia from Guangzhou, China

10 out of 10

"I've long wanted to try a yoga retreat and chose Marga Yoga on the net after seeing positive reviews. I chose yoga holidays stay which was a good decision - a nice, quiet, and relaxing stay. Simona's a great yoga teacher! Perfect place to enjoy nice yoga sessions, match your flexibility and yoga knowledge, try out meditation (harder than it looks!), savor very tasty, home-cooked food (almost convinced me to go vegetarian) with, on top, interesting and often funny conversations. Not to forget the massages, Reiki session, temple visits, and Aum, one of the best educated dogs I've met to date. On the practical side, I was lodged on a nearby small resort (three minutes away on a bike, eight minutes' walking, and five minutes' walking through the beach), in a charming little bungalow with an open roof shower / bathroom (loved it, but they have closed one if it doesn't suit one's taste). Resort was quiet and it has a small swimming pool, which comes very handy when the low tide makes it really too shallow to swim in the sea.In conclusion, while I have no comparison base since it was my first ever yoga retreat, I would definitely recommend Marga Yoga for a nice, relaxing, learning yoga time - and I'm hoping to go back for another stay whenever possible! Thanks Simona for a great stay :-)"

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Review by Victoria

10 out of 10

"I came to Simona as a total destroyed person after the hardest situation in my life. With her help, wise advices, and positivity, I have slowly gained power to continue and manage my life. Marga yoga retreat is a place where you can chill, relax, have an amazing time, learn yoga, meditations, and I should not forget to mention delicious and original food. Simona is a great yoga teacher as a perfect cook! I definitely will come back there soon. Thank you, Simona! "

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Review by Nadia

10 out of 10

"The day at Marga Yoga was absolutely great. I've learned so much about life by doing my hobby and I'm still thinking about it every day! Thank you very, very much, Simona! I hope to come back one day and I can just recommend it to everyone!"

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Review by Chiara from Rome, Italy

10 out of 10

"I was planning a trip to Koh Samui, because I really needed a break from an exhausting winter. It was the first time to Thailand for me and I was looking for a quiet place not too expensive where I could face a ten days detox program. I found the Marga Yoga website by chance and it looked like the perfect place to me: far from the chaotic center with loud music and pole dancers, in the quiet area of Taling Ngam where you can find the best sunsets ever. When I wrote to Simona to have some information about my trip, I understood she was the teacher I was looking for: caring, helpful, and professional. When I met her, this was confirmed. I spent 10 days with her doing yoga, meditation, and eating three amazing raw meals a day she prepared for me. Simona worked as a cook in England for many, many years before fully embracing the yoga philosophy and she really surprised me with her raw lasagna, fishless sushi, avocado, and cashew cream for zucchini spaghetti and chocolate mousse! I couldn't stop taking pictures of the dishes! She taught me a lot about yoga, spirituality, and life and she also made me laugh a lot!Even if Thailand is not a place that, in the end, I can say I like for many reasons, that retreat changed me somehow and I have to thank Simona for that. I fully recommend it. "

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Review by a traveler from Moscow, Russia

10 out of 10

"We have just the beginners found and started the yoga adventure here in Samui (four of us). I feel lucky finding a place called Marge Yoga with a very pleasant and knowledgeable teacher, Simona, who diligently helped us in making a deep dive to yoga. In our humble opinion, Simona is really good and highly motivated towards teaching and living in yoga world, what you can feel and follow. Moreover, she is a very good person to talk to and attentive to your questions and needs. Highly recommended. I am sure you are going to like it. "